Ken Ofori-Atta to Return to Ghana in May Amid Corruption Investigation
Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is expected to return to Ghana in May 2025 following a medical evaluation abroad, according to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. This announcement comes as the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) declared Ofori-Atta wanted in connection with an ongoing corruption investigation. The former minister’s legal team has been in communication with the OSP regarding his return and subsequent interrogation.
The Corruption Investigation: Key Allegations
The OSP has leveled serious allegations against Ofori-Atta, linking him to several high-profile financial dealings. These include:
- The Strategic Mobilisation-GRA contract
- The termination of the ECG-BXC contract
- Payments related to the National Cathedral project
- Ambulance procurement irregularities
- Transactions involving the Tax Refund Account
These allegations form the core of the ongoing investigation, which has drawn significant public and political attention.
For more details on Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts, visit the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s website.
Ofori-Atta’s Medical Treatment and Return Timeline
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Afenyo-Markin shared a letter from Ofori-Atta’s legal team outlining his medical schedule and expected return date.
The letter stated:
“We acknowledge receipt of your letter dated February 17, 2025. We respectfully indicate that our client, who is due for his return, cannot be available any earlier than six to eight weeks following his scheduled surgical intervention, as outlined in the hospital’s letter. Taking into account the surgical dates of March 20 to 21 and his required recuperation period, our client should be able to return to the jurisdiction between May 14 and 30, 2025.”
This timeline suggests that Ofori-Atta will undergo surgery in late March and require several weeks of recovery before returning to Ghana.
Legal and Political Implications
Ofori-Atta’s delayed return has sparked debates about accountability and the rule of law. While his legal team has assured cooperation with the OSP, critics argue that the timing of his medical treatment raises questions about transparency.
The Minority Leader’s disclosure has also reignited discussions about the broader issue of corruption in Ghana’s public sector. For insights into Ghana’s governance challenges, check out Transparency International’s Ghana page.
Call to Action: Demand Accountability
The ongoing investigation into Ken Ofori-Atta’s alleged financial misconduct highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in public office.
What can you do?
- Stay informed about the investigation’s progress.
- Support anti-corruption initiatives in Ghana.
- Advocate for stronger governance and accountability measures.
Join the conversation on social media using #GhanaAgainstCorruption and make your voice heard.
A Test for Ghana’s Anti-Corruption Efforts
The case of Ken Ofori-Atta is a litmus test for Ghana’s commitment to combating corruption. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including the public, to demand transparency and justice.